Face Masks to Prevent Airborne Infections: Types and How to Choose the Right One for You
Face masks are tools to protect yourself and others from airborne infections when in a public place. They offer protection from viral and bacterial infections that spread through sneezing, coughing, and even talking. While face masks have been there for many years, they became hugely popular during the COVID-19 pandemic for obvious reasons.
They were made mandatory, especially in public places and healthcare units. There are various types of face masks depending on their material, number of layers, and so on. This post emphasizes the significant role of face masks in reducing the spread of COVID-19 and various other airborne infections.
Different Types of Masks
Thankfully, we have moved on from the pandemic phase and started living normal lives again. However, the use of face masks is still there, and it is important in certain areas. Also, coronavirus is still there, and so are various other species which keep mutating. Based on the environments such as healthcare and public spaces, there are various types of masks people still need to wear. Here are some types of face masks.
• N95: Also known as respirator masks, these were widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a disposable or one-time use mask that fits tightly around the mouth and nose. They are designed to filter out almost 95% airborne germs and particles, which offers excellent prevention against viral and bacterial infestations. Always look for NIOSH-approved masks that fit around your face well.
• KN95: These masks although designed to meet international standards, hugely vary in quality. This is mainly because they do not have any standards set by NIOSH or any other body. So, if you find KN95 NIOSH-certified masks, refrain from buying them.
• Surgical masks: These masks are generally green or blue, and typically represent a hospital environment. These are disposable and must be safely disposed of after use each day. While these masks can protect against cough and sneeze droplets, they cannot control all the viruses and bacteria entering through the nose or mouth.
• Cloth masks: These sustainable masks offer basic level protection. They can be washed and reused, and are comfortable to use. Made of 3-layered breathable cotton fabric, these masks cannot filter out the germs. But this is a better option than not wearing a mask at all. You must use your own washed and cleaned mask, and never exchange it with anyone.
• Face shields: These shields cover almost your entire face and were frequently used by medical practitioners during the pandemic. These shields are made of transparent plastic to avoid blocking vision, and they come with an elastic band to be worn on the forehead. They are recommended to be worn in public places in case you have a cold, cough, sneezing, runny nose, and so on. While these face shields may not resist the entry of germs, they create a physical barrier between you and another person to help prevent direct contact and likely exchange of germs.
How to Choose the Right Mask Based on Your Requirements?
You need to consider various factors such as environment, personal health concerns, and mask certification among others when choosing a mask. Here are some relevant pointers.
• Objective: Masks in public places may be used to safeguard against possible infections or simply to prevent ourselves dust, smoke, and environmental pollutants. You need to identify your reason for using the mask, which will ease the selection process.
• When to use N95: If you have a viral or allergic cold, cough, or respiratory infection, it is best to use N95 to protect yourself from most types of viruses, bacteria, airborne particles, dust, contaminants, and more.
• When to use cloth masks: You can use a simple cotton cloth mask or a surgical mask when visiting someone who is unwell. Here, you must ensure to maintain appropriate distance. This ensures we are not infecting the already sick person in any way.
• For allergies: Cloth masks or surgical masks are also enough to protect yourself from allergies due to pollen, dust, and other airborne contaminants.
• Who should not wear a mask: Do not wear a mask if you have breathing issues and dizziness. Also, it is not advisable for kids under two years as well as dependent patients who cannot remove their own mask quickly. In such cases, ensure maintaining distance and use a face shield.
• Tying pattern: Masks have either elastic ear loops or simple strings for tying them. While strings offer better fitment and can be adjusted easily, the ones with ear loops have gained popularity. If you want a mask with ear loops, ensure the loops can be adjusted with the help of a bead.
• Wearing mask for long hours: Use a mask that is comfortable for you and can wear it for a long time. The number of layers in a mask are important in resisting the entry of germs; however, they should not make your breathing difficult.
• Fitment: This is an important aspect as your mask should fit properly around your face. There should no loose ends or gaps in between for contaminants to enter. Be careful when washing your cloth masks; wash them gently to avoid spoiling their shape or tearing them.
• Masks for children: There are specially designed masks for children to fit around their faces. You can buy the one with attractive prints and adjustable ear loops as it is easy for kids to remove them.
• Certifications: Check for certifications by either CDC or NIOSH when buying masks. Typically, there are many home entrepreneurs making handmade masks. Ensure they have CDC certification and are sewn complying with CDC guidelines.
Lifestyle Tips to Protect Yourself from Infections
Here are some easy-to-follow lifestyle practices that will help prevent any airborne infections.
• Washing hands: A basic practice is to wash your hands with soap and water before any meal, after using the washroom, and also when you come home from any outside environment.
• Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your face too often to avoid bacteria on your hands from entering your mount and nose.
• Brushing and flossing: Brush your teeth and clean your mucosal area at least twice a day. Floss after each meal. This helps reduce unwanted bacteria in your mouth.
• Cleanse Your Throat and Nose: Your throat is the most common point of viral infection. You can cleanse your throat and nose using cleansing sprays, such as CofixRX Throat and Nose Spray.
• Strengthen immunity: Build your immunity to get resistance against infections. You can do this by following a healthy diet and exercise regime. Additionally, you can also include immune boosting supplements, such as Goli Triple Action Immune Booster gummies, and Liquid IV Hydration Multiplier + Immune Support in your diet.
• Face cover etiquette: Cover your face with a napkin or wear a mask when sneezing and coughing. This prevents others in the surroundings from getting infected because of us.
• Hydration and sleep: Stay hydrated through the day and reduce the water intake at night. Also, ensure you get adequate sleep.
• Mask and vaccinations: Wear a mask in high-risk environments and extremely crowded areas. Practice social distancing in such areas. Also, ensure your annual vaccinations are done.
• Handy kit: Keep a kit that contains a few masks, sanitizer, and wet wipes handy. This is especially useful when travelling.
• Health checkups: Get regular health checkups done and monitor your health at home as well.
If you require a mask for whatever reason, you can easily order them online from Pharmalynk. We offer masks of various types and brands. You are sure to find one that suits your needs, whether for yourself, elderly members, or children. Some brands we offer include Zidian, which is for kids, MagiCare disposable masks, and Guoyan KN95 masks among others. If you have any questions, feel free to reach the team at Pharmalynk via phone (714-202-0474) or email (info@pharmalynk.com).
FAQs
What is the difference between N95 and KN95 masks?
N95: These masks are certified in the U.S. and tested for filtration and fitment.
KN95: These masks are certified in China and designed to meet similar filtration standards as N95; they may have different fitment standards and variation in terms of quality.
Can face masks be reused?
Disposable Masks are not reusable and must be discarded after a single use or when damp. However, you can wash and reuse cloth masks several times. Some N95 masks can be reused in low-risk environments provided they are undamaged and stored properly.
Are masks with valves effective?
Masks with valves provide easier exhalation but may not filter outgoing air, making them less effective for preventing transmission to others.
How long can I wear a disposable mask?
You can safely use a disposable mask for 4-8 hours of continuous use. Replace it if becomes damp, soiled, or damaged.
Are face masks effective against air pollution?
Masks rated N95, N99, or N100 are effective against particulate matter like PM2.5. Cloth masks are less effective for fine particles but can still offer a basic level of protection against infection from others, dust, and more.
Do masks interfere with the development of a healthy immune system in kids?
No. Wearing a mask won’t compromise your child’s immunity or increase their risk of COVID or other infections. In fact, masks prevent children from getting infected and stop them from constantly touching their faces.
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